Bulls Drop Game 1 3-1 To Mudbugs

AMARILLO, TX — The Amarillo Bulls couldn’t overcome an early two goal deficit and drop a 3-1 decision to the Shreveport Mudbugs in the opening game of the South Division Championship Series at the Budweiser Bull Pen in the Amarillo Civic Center.

The second game is set for Friday at 7 pm and then the series shifts back to Shreveport for the next two games at George’s Pond Hirsch Coliseum on Wednesday and Thursday

Cooper Fensterstock netted the Bulls lone goal in the second period, while goaltender Jason Grande took the loss, turning aside 25 of 28 shots he faced. Timothy Clifton, CJ Regula and Jack Jaunich scored for Shreveport and goaltender Leo Chuard was solid in goal stopping 31 of 32 shots.

It was a slow start to the game for the Amarillo Bulls as the visiting Mudbugs were able to jump out to a 1-0 advantage on a goal 90 seconds into the contest by Timothy Clifton. After that, the Bulls settled down and were able to get 9 of the last 13 shots on goal in the second half of the stanza.

The Bulls came out with better jump in the second period thanks to the work of David Ojamae, Cooper Fensterstock, Nick Trela and Brendan West. After the Mudbugs grabbed a 2-0 lead in the first seven minutes, the Bulls finally got on the board when Cooper Fensterstock banked a shot off the skate of goaltender Leo Chuard and into the back of the net to pull the team to within one. David Ojamae and Jake Willets had assists on the play. Brendan West missed tying the game several minutes later when Chuard robbed him inside the goal crease.

The Bulls outshot the Mudbugs 14-7 in the second period.

The third period featured a defensive battle between the two teams as the Bulls were unable to get closer. Shreveport put the game away when Jack Jaunich covered a pretty passing play from the slot area. The Bulls pulled their goaltender in final minute of play but were unable to score.

The Amarillo Bulls outshot the Shreveport Mudbugs 32-28. There was just one power play during the contest and it went to the Bulls.

Fans can take advantage of the Family Four Pack for $50 and Bring A Bud for $25 for Friday’s game. It’s sponsored by CanTex Roofing commemorative South Division Championship Rally Towels will be given away at the door. Tickets are available at the Bulls Office 301 South Polk, Civic Center Box Office and all Panhandle Ticket locations including United Supermarkets or by calling 242-1122 or visit www.amarillobulls.com/playoffs.